The Powerful Mefistofele Stars at FIAT’s 125th Anniversary
FIAT's 125th anniversary coincides with the 100th anniversary of the legendary Mefistofele’s record-breaking speed achievement. To mark these milestones, Centro Storico FIAT will host a special event from July 12-14, featuring the iconic Mefistofele. This event, supported by the National Automobile Museum of Turin (MAUTO) and under the patronage of Turin 2024 Capital of Business Culture, offers a unique opportunity to explore automotive history.
Event Details and Attractions
The celebration begins on Friday, July 12th, with a conference titled “The Mefistofele and record-breaking cars with aero engines,” featuring industry experts, academics, and notable figures. The public can attend the special opening at Centro Storico FIAT from 3 pm to 7 pm, with extended hours on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. Attendees will enjoy a special exhibition dedicated to the Mefistofele and its history, guided tours, and family-friendly activities.
The Legend of Mefistofele
The story of Mefistofele began in 1923 when British motor racing enthusiast Ernest Eldridge purchased a 1908 Fiat SB4 race car. Eldridge's vision was to create a record-breaking vehicle, modifying the car by lengthening its chassis and equipping it with a Fiat A12 aircraft engine, converted to deliver 320 HP at 1800 rpm. The car earned its nickname "Mefistofele" due to its awe-inspiring performance and fiery presence.
On July 12, 1924, Eldridge drove Mefistofele to a world speed record of 234.98 km/h in Arpajon, France. This momentous achievement was followed by additional records in 1925 at Montlhery, where Mefistofele clocked speeds of over 200 km/h on the 5 and 10 km tracks and 206 km/h on the 5-mile track.
In 1969, Giovanni Agnelli acquired the Mefistofele from Sir Eldridge's heirs. The car underwent meticulous restoration to return it to perfect working order and is now preserved at the Centro Storico FIAT, symbolizing FIAT's rich legacy.
Experience Automotive History at Centro Storico FIAT
Visitors to the Centro Storico FIAT during this event will have the rare chance to witness the Mefistofele up close and learn about its remarkable history. The Centro Storico FIAT offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing FIAT's evolution and its contributions to the automotive industry.
For car enthusiasts in Dubai, exploring FIAT's legacy and unique models like the Mefistofele offers a glimpse into the brand's innovative spirit. If you're interested in owning a piece of automotive history, Auto Trader UAE provides a wide selection of used cars in Dubai, including classic and modern FIAT models. Discover the best deals on used cars in Dubai and find your perfect vehicle today at Auto Trader UAE.
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